Tsum Valley Trekking - 17 Days

Tsum valley
manaslu region
temlpe in mountain region
At a Glance
based on 1 review
Duration17 Days
Trip GradeModerate
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude4200 m/13,780 ft at The Ganesh Himal Base Camp
Group Size2-10
StartsKathmandu
EndsKathmandu
Travel StyleTrek
Best TimeSpring & Autumn

One of the best classic Tsum Valley Treks is to the northern Gorkha, bordered by some of the massive majestic giants of Nepal, i.e., Boudha and Chuli Himal to the west, Sringi Himal to the north, and Ganesh Himal to the south, under the Manaslu Restricted Area of the country.

The history of the valley takes you to century-old ancient Vajrayana Buddhism and Bon, passing by major two villages noted for their unique culture and traditions reflecting the influence of the Tibetan lifestyle, Chumling (Lower Tsum) and Chaikampar (Upper Tsum).

The Gumba Lungdang, Pungen Gumpa, Rachen Gompa, and Mu Gompa are some of the most notable religious and historical landmarks of the Tsum Valley, where many spiritual leaders and gurus are believed to have mediated, which has come together to create one of the sacred valleys for Buddhism and Hinduism, still hidden and untouched by the increasing speed of modernity.

The Tsumbas are the natives of the Tsum Valley, with the thundering, deep-throated sound of the Tibtean horn showcasing their unique art of living as portrayed by several monasteries in the region performing their day-to-day rituals and offering offerings seeking liberation.

Similarly, the whole Tsum Valley region is also a spectacular creation of mother nature, beautified with a patchwork of alpine meadows, terraced farms, and a wide population of lively fauna playing in the foothills of Ganesh Himal.

Hence, the Tsum Valley adventure is the most pleasant and outstanding diversified cultural and natural exploration watched over by some of the major sky-dominating peaks of Nepal, including Ganesh, Shringi, and Boudha Himal.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the scenic drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola.
  • Explore the secret valleys and the diverse culture of the Manalsu region.
  • Venture into the intriguing off-beaten, remote trekking trails of the restricted region of Nepal.
  • Observe the distinctive customary life of Tsumbas and others, which bears a closer resemblance to Tibet.
  • Embrace the pristine and serene nature of the eighth-tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m or 26,781ft).
  • Discover the wide array of Himalayan flora and fauna.
  • Uphold the extensive mountain views of Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m/26,781 ft), Machapuchare (6,993 m/22,943 ft), Gangapurna (7,455 m/24,459 ft), Annapurna I (8,091 m/26,545 ft) and its ranges, Ganesh Himal (7,422 m/24,350 ft), and others from Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4200 m/13,780 ft) and throughout the trekking trail.
  • Vibrant typical valleys, monasteries, Mani walls, and gompas adorned with prayer flags
  • Hike through the lush forests of pine, juniper, and rhododendron, along with cascading waterfalls, roaring rivers, and caves, with the possibility of encountering very rare blue sheep and Himalayan tahr.

What to expect at this Tsum Valley Trek?

The valley that did not see any visitors until 2008, Tsum, is still one of the restricted zones of Nepal, which allows travelers and trekkers only when permitted by different special cards regulated by the government of Nepal and local authorities themselves.

Therefore, the land of Tsum retains the most authentic culture, nature, and bounty of others yet to be discovered, hidden in the north Himalayan rain shadow area of the country. A trek here is one must-do where you can expect:

The unique cultural encounter

The trekking route to the Tsum passes through several typical village areas, mostly inhabited by the indigenous communities of Gurung and Tamang in the lower altitudes, while the upper valley is mostly dominated by Sherpas and Tsumbas.

All of them possess their own unique identity, culture, traditions, costumes, festivals, and religious beliefs, which you can see blending marvelously to have created such a peaceful mountain life that you cannot help getting envious of.

Far away from the hustle and bustle of modern civilization and urbanization, the people of Tsum Valley and its surrounding areas practice Buddhism, Animism, and Hinduism and value family, community, and every relationship they make or meet.

Tsubasa, including every ethnic society living around the trekking of Tsum Valley, share a deep connection with nature, worship it as a god or goddess, and celebrate it together.

One of the notable practices of the Tsum Valley is 'Shyagya', which does not allow sacrifices or killing of any animals for meat or any other purposes; hence, the valley is called Beyul Kyimolung, or the valley of happiness, where no one suffers.

Simultaneously, the valley is blessed with many remarkable cultural heritages, such as gompas, monasteries, caves, and others, that have a direct link to some of the most respected and admired Buddhist saints, such as Milarepa and Drupa Rinpoche.

Hence, the Tsum Valley Trek can be called the journey to the cultural and spiritual heaven set in the Himalayas, promoting true biocultural preservation and peace in isolation and seclusion.

The less-trodden trekking route toward the Tsum Valley

As the mythical natural and cultural gem of Nepal, the Tsum Valley trekking path is one of the fewest known routes that assures a real adventure in the Himalayas and a more secluded and authentic experience as compared to other more popular trekking destinations such as the Everest Base Camp Trek, the Annapurna Circuit Trek, and the Annapurna Base Camp Trek. 

Once the salt commerce route to Tibet, Tsum Valley was confined, which allowed only a handful of visitors, the trek here is for those seeking ultimate serenity and solitude in the nature flourished by the Himalayas, offering a vast adventure with its rugged terrain, steep climbs, and descents, along with some tricky sections. 

Hence, make sure to be assisted by a professional mountain guide while you have decided to embark on the off-the-beaten trekking route to the Tsum Valley to make the most of your journey to the secret valley of the Manaslu Restricted region.

A first-hand spiritual experience in Mu Gompa and Gumba Lungdang

Mu Gompa and Gumba Lungdang are two of the most significant monuments where Tsumbas and other active practitioners of Buddhism and Hinduism perform the everyday ritual of offering aromatic incense, fruits, and others to appease the local deities, spirits, and protectors in the Tsum Valley that you will get to visit during your voyage with Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd.

Located at an altitude of 3,700 m (12,139 ft) above sea level in the Tsum Valley, Mu Gompa shelters around 100 monks teaching and learning Buddhism, ways of meditation, and everyday rituals in a rural and serene location encompassed by scenic landscapes and several Himalayan backdrops. During your trek to Tsum Valley, you will take a day trip to Mu Gompa, which gives you a great opportunity to witness and learn the Buddhist way of life, which is going to be an amazing experience.

Furthermore, the Tsum Valley is home to another major substantial cultural and historical ancient gompa, Lungdang, at an elevation of approximately 3,200 m/10,499 ft, providing a not-to-miss chance all to experience the cultural and spiritual aspects of the Tsum Valley region characterized by Tibetan influences and art festooned by vibrant prayer flags.

Being the best culture hub of the region, both of the Gompas provide jaw-dropping, more opened-up views of the eighth highest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163m), Lamjung Himal, Ganesh Himal, and others, making them an excellent vantage point to observe this unbeatable beauty during the Tsum Valley Trek.

The Tempting Himalayan ranges

One of the less-traversed Tsum Valleys falls under the restricted area of the Manaslu region, which has the dominant presence of the eight-tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), translating to the spirit mountain, where Manasa means “intellect” or "soul."

Along with the unavoidable gaze of Mt. Manaslu, the Tsum Valley is bordered by Ganesh Himal (7,422m), Sringi (7,161m), Boudha (6,672m), and Himalchuli (7,893m). These towering peaks watch you over your journey to the Tsum Valley, inspiring and persisting you to keep up the hike.

They look outstanding throughout your venture to the Tsum Valley, which includes passing by some dense woods, suspension bridges, strenuous steep hills, and rocky terrain, adding thrill to the overall journey.

Dramatic Ganesh Himal Base Camp

One of the major highlights of our 17-day Tsum Valley Trek is the Ganesh Himal Base Camp, which is also the maximum elevation you will be at. It is the mountain's base camp called Ganesh, named after the Hindu deity Ganesha.

Located in the northwest of Kathmandu and the central-eastern part of Nepal, the base camp at an altitude of 4,200 m is truly a natural masterpiece to witness the raw wildness of the Himalayas, its ecosystem, the valleys on its lap, and the majestic mountain ranges during the trek to Tsum Valley.

The peaks such as Ganesh I (7,422 m/24,350 ft/Ruby peak) or Yangra, Ganesh II (7,118 m/23,356 ft), Ganesh III (7,110 m/23,325 ft), Ganesh IV (7,047 m/23,130 ft), and others from here look awe-inspiring and forever leave an impressive impression on every adventurer's spirits.

Wonderful Landscapes route to the Tsum Valley Trek

The Tsum Valley Trek in the country known for its soaring hills and mountains, Nepal, ponders trekkers, and travelers with its wide array of landscapes you could never imagine having existed in the Himalayan ecosystem.

It is a wonderland whose lower section is dotted with terraced fields and green valleys, crossing numerous babbling rivers, waterfalls, deep gorges, canyons, lush forests, typical Tibetan stone-roofed villages, along with awe-inspiring mountain vistas, ancient monasteries, chortens, and the more constricted and secluded ambiance of the Tsum valley with high alpine meadows.

The thick green forest is home to great numbers of wild animals. Anticipate to see some of the rare species of blue sheep and Himalayan tahr that will leave you wondering how it is even possible. Well, let's go and see yourself with us in 2024! Shall we?

Tsum Valley Trek Itinerary

This 17-day Tsum Valey Trek typically commences from Soti Khola after a drive on the previous day from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, while relishing the rich scenery following the Budhi Gandaki Valleys.

Thereafter, the trekking trail takes you through the north bank of the Budhi Gandaki river, passing by a series of nicely ornate traditional villages past the forests, which are decorated with trees of rhododendron and pine, that make their way to first Maccha Khola, Jagat, Lokpa, Chumling, Chekampar, and Nile.

Then, as per the 17-day itinerary to trek the Tsum Valley, you will spend a day allocated for acclimatization, venturing to the Mu Gompa and its surroundings to let your body adjust to the mountainous environment conveniently, first ascending up to Mu Gompa and later descending back to the lower elevation of Nile to take rest.

From Nile, the second phase of the adventurous journey to the Tsum Valley begins, which takes a downhill track up to Chekpampar and then ascends to Gumba Lungdang for more cultural exposure of the valley and mountain vistas.

This itinerary gets very interesting as you approach the base camp of Ganesh Himal. From here, the sight of Mt. Ganesh (7,422 m or 24,350ft) and its ranges looks out of the world. Including that of Langtang Lirung (7,227m / 23,711 ft), Manaslu (8,163/26,781ft), Himchuli (7,893 m / 25,896 ft), Paldor (5,896 m / 19,347 ft), etc.

From Ganesh Himal base camp, according to our 17-day Tsum Valley Trek itinerary, you will head back to Lokpa and retrace the route via Maccha Khola and Soti Khola to take a local bus to Kathmandu.

This itinerary is among the holistic ones for those fascinated by Tibetan culture, mountains, and their pristine nature!

Why 17-day itinerary to go Tsum Valley Voyage?

The 17-day itinerary to go on the Tsum Valley Trek is picked considerably by our team of local terrain experts, who have collected years of sharpened knowledge of the Tsum Valley region’s culture, terrains, landscapes, and unforeseen circumstances.

However, we are happy to be flexible in customizing this itinerary to meet your specific needs and any other special requirements related to the trek to Tsum Valley, which could be the length of the trekking days, accommodation, food options, etc.

It is recommended to add rather than deduct the trek days for better altitude acclimatization and exploration of the Tsum Valley and its environment, which automatically does add to the cost of the package and is totally worth it!

At Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd., we prioritize the happiness, satisfaction, and safety of our god-like clients. Let us know your time constraints, budget, and other preferences, as we excel at tailoring the perfect itinerary to go on the Tsum Valley Trek to ensure your fantastic trekking experience in Nepal!

Tsum Valley Trek Cost

Yes, the cost to go Tsum Valley trekking can differ significantly depending upon various factors, including the duration, services included and excluded in the package, the size of your group, time of year, your personal choices, and the agency you have chosen to trek with.

It gets head-scratching to plan your budget to embark on the Tsum Valley. So, we (Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd.) are offering the most cost-effective package to trek Tsum Valley in 2024 and 2025.

The standard package cost begins at USD 955, where group departures are on the verge of getting special discounts and more tales of adventure, social interaction, cultural exchange, and uncountable and unforgettable memories.

This trekking package covers the most essential expenses for the trek to Tsum Valley, together with the necessary permits, food, accommodation throughout the trek days, guides and porters, as well as their salary, insurance, meals, and accommodation in tea houses and lodges.

Hence, as one of the leading trekking, tour, and travel operators in Nepal, based in the tourist center of Kathmandu, Thamel, we believe it is the best and most reasonable price to go on an adventure into the Tsum Valley.

 

Itinerary

The excursion to the Tsum Valley begins after an early morning breakfast drive from Kathmandu to Soti Khola. The journey is scenic, following the Prithivi Highway on the west side of Kathmandu along the bank of the roaring Trishuli River. Fish from this river is famous throughout the country that you consider tasting!

In a few hours of driving after passing Dhading, the ride is through the deteriorating road with bumps to Arughat, a tiny hill town facilitating astonishing views of Mt. Manaslu, Ganesh, and other majestic peaks.

Soti Khola from Arughat is a drive of around 2–3 hours, depending on the road condition of the day, through the dense woods up the river along the banks of the Budhi Gandaki River, across the mountains with excellent visibility of the lower valleys, which eventually leads to the tea house or the local guesthouse of the day.

Max. Altitude: 730 mMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea-House

Today, you will leave Soti Khola quite early in the morning by crossing the goose-bumping suspension bridge while relishing amazing vistas of the several waterfalls and river tribulations on the route, which later on enter the dense forest of Sal and climb the ridge atop the rapid of the Budhi Gandaki.

Thereafter, the trekking trail to reach Maccha Khola from Soti Khola ascends to Liding and Khursane, which gradually descends by terraced farms and fields of Gurung people in Lapubesi village, from where the path starts to expand, moving forth to cross the Nauli Khola from the sandy bank of the Budhi Gandaki river to make it to Maccha Khola, the destination of the day.

Max. Altitude: 890m / 2,965ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The trek ahead of this day is 6-7 hours through the fertile landscapes, growing diverse flora swarmed with nectar-loving butterflies and honeybees during the spring and autumn, which heads through the classic route to the Tharo Khola at first and then Kholra Besi, making its way to the therapeutic natural hot spring called Tatopani.

Right from here, the valley trekking trail starts to get narrower, pursuing the Budhi Gandaki River. Throughout that, you will cross with the help of a usually breezy hanging bridge back and forth over it, which from then presents a stone staircase adorned with prayer flags leading to Tharo Bharyang and casually to Jagat, the popular stopover to the west of the Budhi Gandaki River, which is also the gateway to enter the Manaslu Conservation Area.

Max. Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Jagat is a large ethnic agro-based Gurung village that you will bid farewell to this day after registering your entry in the restricted Tsum Valley to meet another beautiful traditional village of Lokpa with a steep ascending ridge up to Salleri, rewarding you with a stunning view of Mt. Sringi. From here, there is a continuous downhill trek up to Sirdibas. 

From Sirdibas, you will traverse the longest suspension bridge in Nepal, located in the north part of Philim, that rises straight up to Lokpa, the first Tsum valley village, with jaw-dropping sights of Himalchuli and Boudha Himal as well as that of Manaslu. Before Lokpa, you will arrive at Ekle Bhatti via a thick forest, where you can take a small break.

Max. Altitude: 2,040m / 6,692ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

After spending a fulfilling night in the village of Lokpa, which is believed to have been graced by Padmashamva, a Buddhist Vajra Master and tantric, or the one born from a lotus many centuries ago, you will head to Chumling, showcasing the abundance of cultural, historical, and religious heritages of the region with Panago Gumba, Mani Dhungyur, and Gurwa Gumba, along with several others.

The trail, in the beginning, descends around half an hour through a tropical forest of rhododendron and pine towards the Lungwa Khola and Siyar Khola, whose bridge connects you to Ripchet, and later on Chulmling, known as the lower Tsum, with a more exclusive view of Shringi and Ganesh Himal, to spend the night amidst it.

Max. Altitude: 2,386m / 7,828ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The aim of the day is Chekampar. So, after grabbing the delicious morning breakfast, you will hit the trail early, capturing the never-ending view of Ganesh and Buddha Himal. In approximately 2 hours of hiking, covering 6.25 km, you will reach Dumje, the biggest town in Tsum Valley, where you can take a short tea break.

Then, you will stop at the Gho village to savor the lunch of the day after crossing the river in between. Expect this section of the trek to be slightly tiresome in comparison to other trekking days until Chaurikharkha from where the hike gets relatively relaxing when the valley path widens out with deep gorges and alpine forets. 

At last series of Buddhist Mane enhanced with prayer flags greets you warmly at the gate of Chekampar.

Max. Altitude: 3,031m/9,944ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The trek of the seventh day to reach the Nile starts with a very lovely morning view of the mountains such as Ganesh Himal, Buddha, and Himalchuli through a relatively easy flat trail, passing by a series of villages separated by ancient Mani walls.

Lying on the western side of the upper Tsum Valley, Nile village is the last inhabited area in 11km of Chekampar that bears the sacred Phiren, or Pigeon Cave, and other important monuments symbolizing the cultural, architectural, and religious beliefs of the whole region. 

To reach here from Chekampar, first, you will pass the Shiear Khola, Phurbe, Pangdun, and Chhule. From Chuhule, Nile village is an uphill walk of 20–30 minutes. It will be truly gratifying to leave footprints in this sacred land!

Max. Altitude: 3,361m/11,026ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Today is one of the most important days when you will be blessed in the largest gompa of the Tsum Valley region at an altitude of 3,700 m, which has many religious scriptures, portraits, and paintings related to the Vajrayana Buddhism practices that guide the everyday lives of the locals.

Aside from these, the life-idol of the Avalokiteshwara is also rewarding when you walk uphill through several yak pasture land and arid trans-Himalayan terrain. The hike is comparatively short, as you will retrace the way back to the Nile. 

This act of ascending high and resting at a low altitude is known as the process of acclimatization, which is one of the vital factors that affect your overall journey to the high Himalayan region, such as the Tsum Valley.

Max. Altitude: 3,700m/12,139ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

After an acclimatization in the Nile and a visit to the holy Gompa of Mu, you will head to Chekampar to begin a new chapter of the Tsum Valley Trek by Pangdun, which gradually leads to Phurbe.

The route from Phurbe makes its way to the Rachen monastery, which is decorated with colorful prayer flags and wheels and is believed to invoke good luck and prosperity, representing the Buddhist influence over the area.

From then on, you will pursue the bank of Siyar Khola to Milarepa’s Cave, Burji Village, and Lama Gaon, whose downhill descent takes you to the twin village and finally to Chhekampar as the final stop of the day.

Max. Altitude: 3,361m/11,026ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The trekking aisle of this day drops down from Chhekamparo to venture into another holy ambiance of Gumba Lungdang passing by Gho, Dumje, which has a clinic in Amchi that practices and teaches Tibetan traditional herbal medicine.

The trailhead to the east of Dumje tags the lush forest of pine, juniper, and rhododendrons stealing a peek from the several mani walls and prayer flags till you make it to Lungdang Gompa which is home to at least 40 nuns. 

Every day, the Gompa performs an intense pooja burning the pleasant smelling incense and offering flowers, fruits, and other ediables in the morning and evening that have the power to nullify the negative energies in the almighty omnipresence of almighty peaks.

Max. Altitude: 3,200m/10,498ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Today marks yet another brilliant day when you head to the base camp of Ganesh Himal, the wonderful natural amphitheater, which is one of the best picturesque photography paradises.

Therefore, you will leave the Gumba early in the morning after breakfast, following rural zigzag terrains through the passing forests which cross the Laudang Khola to the west bank. 

Later, the trekking trail of the day climbs a steep ridge through alpine pine and rhododendrons to meet the hut in Kharkha. Continuing the hike from here, you will begin emerging into the grassy flats of the Toro Gompa glacier.

Moving forth the lateral moraine of this glacier from here, you will reach the Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200m) in around 4 hours, which path might not be obvious, but don’t you worry as usual, our guide will come to your rescue, and you will surely make it to the camp safely and merriarily.

After living the best moment in the base camp of Ganesh and enjoying the close-up views of the majestic peaks of the Ganesh Himal ranges, jaw-dropping landscapes, valleys, and gorges below, as well as the changing colors of the sky, you will return to Gompa Lungdang.

Max. Altitude: 4,200m/13,780 ft.Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

It is an interesting day when you will begin the reverse trek to return to Kathmandu Valley after a delightful overnight stay in Gumba Lungdang. At first, the trail of this day descends to Domje, which hikes up by the Khola of Lungdang and goes to the south to Ripchet (2,470m).

The route up here is a natural manifestation of traveling through the charming deep forest and crossing the exciting suspension bridges to drop at the Batti Ghumlong, which, after a slight rise, takes you to Lokpa for the night over in the local guest house and tea houses.

Max. Altitude: 3,200m/10,498ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Following the forever-reminiscing night in Lokpa, the time has come to descend into Jagat, which will reconnect you to the Budhi Gandaki River and its valley, which keeps on stealing the most spectacular views of the several mountains en route.

Expect the descending trek through the dense forest to be relatively pleasing for your legs when you will cross some of the thrilling suspension bridges as well till you reach the villages of Sirdibas and Salleri before making a final downhill hike to the designation of the day, Jagat.

Max. Altitude: 2,040m / 6,692ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

The trek back from Jagat to Maccha Khola covers a distance of 22.2 km/13.7 miles, passing through different Gurung people villages such as Yuru Khola, Dobhan, Tatopani, Throra Bharyang, Kholra Besi, and Tharo Khola along the valley of the Budhi Gandaki Valley. 

It is comparatively an easy trek day, where the hanging bridges over the deep river of Budhi Gandaki and tributaries add to the excitement.

Max. Altitude: 1,400m / 4,593ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

You are almost at the end of your Tsum Valley Trek when you will be descending back to Soti Khola from Maccha Khola to catch a ride back to Kathmandu. To do so, only a few hours' walk from Maccha Khola, you will cross an adventurous suspension bridge over the Nauli Khola.

The trail of the day from then now follows the river bed of the Budhi Gandaki river to arrive at Khursane, Liding, and lastly at ravishing Gurung village, Lapu Bensi, to make the final trek of the day to Soti Khola Village.

Max. Altitude: 890m / 2,965ftMeal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Goodbye to the Himalayas and Tsum Valley! The trek officially ends today as you depart a local bus back to Kathmandu from Soti Khola, covering a distance of approximately 141.3km, initially riding a jeep till Arughat, 13km from Soti Khola, a 5-hour walk.

It is a scenic drive with promising views of the cascading waterfalls, green hills, roars of the Trishuli river, and snow-capped mountains atop all by the Prithvi Highway in 7-8 hours to enjoy the most delicious dinner in the evening in Kathmandu with your trekking members.

Meal: Breakfast-Lunch-DinnerAccommodation: Tea houses and local lodges

Today, as per the itinerary of Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd. to trek Tsum Valley, you will be boarding a plane to fly back to your home country when you are transported to the Tribhuvan International Airport in our private tourist car right 3 hours before your scheduled flight time.

If you wish, you may prolong your stay in Nepal and begin another adventurous journey with Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd. You may want to consider:

  • Manaslu Circuit Trek - 13 Days

We wish you a safe flight and hope to see you back soon!

Customize Trip
Trip Service Details
Included
  • Standard accommodation in Kathmandu
  • Lodging during the trek is as per the itinerary
  • Local bus and jeep fees used during the trek
  • Three meals each day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner while trekking.
  • Trekking map and professional guide
  • Personal insurance for Nepalese staff.
  • Garbage deposit and other necessary fees.
  • All permits, such as the Manaslu Conservation Area, Manaslu Restricted Area, and Annapurna Conservation Area Permit.
Excluded
  • International flight tickets to and from Kathmandu.
  • High-altitude travel insurance in case of an accident, medical emergency, or emergency evacuation. 
  • Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, shopping, phone calls, and internet during your stay in Kathmandu.
  • One porter can be shared between two trekkers who can carry a maximum weight of 25kg.
  • Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu.
  • Guide and Porter trek gratitudes are much appreciated.
Dates & Availability
Starts:December 09, 2024Ends:December 25, 2024
PriceUS$1485
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Starts:December 22, 2024Ends:January 07, 2025
PriceUS$1485
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Starts:December 30, 2024Ends:January 15, 2025
PriceUS$1485
AvailabilityGuaranteed
Additional Info

Food options during the Tsum Valley Trek

On the 17-day Tsum Valley trekking trail, you will find a variety of nutritious and filling meals and drinks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in many teahouses and local lodges, which generally include typical Nepali and Tibetan dishes.

Unlike Annapurna and the Everest trekking region, international foods might get limited from the lower region onwards due to Tsum Valley being considered a more off-the-beaten trekking route, which has observed comparatively less urbanization as the hidden valley inside the Manaslu.

Nonetheless, the foods you will come across en route to Tsum Valley are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and other vitamins necessary for your body to hike in the Himalayas of Nepal, which will normally offer you:

  • Dal-Bhat-Tarkari (one heap of rice with lentil or bean soup followed by vegetables from that particular trekking season)
  • Tsampa (roasted barley flour, an everyday traditional Tibetan food)
  • Momos (Nepali vegetarian and non-vegetarian dumplings)
  • Thukpa (a typical Tibetan warming and nourishing noodle soup)
  • Sherpa stew (a hearty local stew usually made up of potatoes, meat, and local finger-licking spices)
  • Suja (butter tea to keep yourself internally warm in the higher altitudes) and many more. 

What types of accommodation to expect during the Tsum Valley Trek?

The Tsum Valley Trek is categorized as a tea house trekking experience in the remote Himalayas of Nepal, where you will spend your nights at different tea houses, homestays, or local lodges and guest houses opened by local communities to host travelers and trekkers.

The rooms are basic with a twin-sharing bed, simply furnished, and come with attached bathrooms. Hot showers like modern amenities are possible in the lower region, but they might get limited once you begin to ascent more and more altitude.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the quality of lodging at the higher altitude might not be as excellent as in the Kathmandu and lower trekking regions, which are usually three-star hotels. However, they are comfortable and cozy to spend a sound night.

You may find a single room without an attached bathroom in a lower, elevated area for an additional price upon requesting us prior to the departing days to the Tsum Valley trek or amidst the hiking days. To conclude, as one of the higher Himalayan zones, the accommodation choices may be limited to tea houses or local lodges with shared rooms and bathrooms.

Usually, bedding is provided, including a foam pad, pillow, and blanket. Enjoy your night at these Himalayan local tea houses, lodges, and homestays, leaving you with nothing much to worry about. Add Tsum Valley Trek with Ammonite Pvt. Ltd. to your bucket list right now.

Does the Tsum Valley lie in a restricted area of Nepal?

Yes, the Tsum Valley lies within the Manaslu restricted area of the country, where visitors are not allowed without a proper special permit regulated by the government of Nepal due to its closer proximity to the Tibetan border and a clear intent to protect its unique culture and environment for the future generation as well.

Nestled amidst the sensitive Himalayan ecosystem, Tsum Valley is home to several ancient and culturally significant mani walls, monasteries, and chorten showing an unmatchable Tibetan influence inhabited by the unique Tsumbas, and hence is one of the highly restricted areas of Nepal to protect its sanctity from modern-world influences.

What are the permits required to go to Tsum Valley Trek?

The Tsum Valley trek is part of the Manaslu Restricted Conservation Area, so in order to enter this extremely protected area, you will need three permits. These permits can be obtained through the Department of Immigration, the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), or a number of approved trekking agencies in Kathmandu and Pokhara. Which are:

Restricted Area Permit to Trek Tsum Valley

Every restricted territory of Nepal requires a restricted area permit to enter the land, regardless of your objective, including Tsum Valley, which falls under the prohibited region of Manaslu.

It is a specific permit whose cost varies as per the trekking season, which is usually USD 100 per person for the first week and an additional USD 15 after each extra day spent from September to November, USD 75 for the first seven days, and USD 10 onwards from December to August.


Manaslu Conservation Area Permit (MCAP)

Along with being designated as a restricted area of Nepal, Tsum Valley is also a part of the Manaslu Conservation Area. Therefore, trekkers are obligated to obtain a Manaslu Conservation Area Permit beside the RAP to traverse the Tsum Valley route. 

The permit is aimed to contribute to the conservation of the area managing the natural resources while promoting sustainable tourism which will cost you approximately USD 30 per person per entry where the trekkers and travelers from SAARC countries are facilitated in NPR 1,000 only. 

Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) for Tsum Valley Trekking

Adventurers starting the Tsum Valley trail must also obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) in addition to the RAP and MCAP since they will frequently need to traverse portions of the Annapurna Conservation Area. 

This specific permit, which is comparable in cost to MCAP, covers several places within the Annapurna hiking region and costs approximately USD 30 per person per entry, depending on the country of the travelers.

When is the best time to trek Tsum Valley?

The spring and autumn are arguably the best times to embark on Tsum Valley. The spring in Nepal is from mid-March to May, while the autumn extends from September to November. These seasons of the year offer the most favorable weather conditions in the Himalayan region, like the Tsum Valley.

Both of the seasons are busiest due to their predictable weather conditions, suitable trekking temperature, excellent visibility with clear skies, and scenically rich environment, reducing the challenges and adding more to the reward of the Tsum Valley Trek.

While the winter (December–February) in the Tsum Valley gets extremely cold, the temperature drops to sub-zero, it becomes humid and foggy, and some parts of the route experience the snow dump as well, making the trail quite slippery, which might have hidden some unknown threats. Therefore, trekkers usually are not fond of winter trekking at Tsum Valley. 

However, it does not imply that venturing into Tsum Valley during the winter is not possible. With proper trekking backpack gear and equipment as per the professional guide, winter offers the never-before-seen beauty of the valley that only you and your trekking group could be the first to discover.

Interestingly, while summer/monsoon is usually regarded as the off-tour season in Nepal, adventure in Tsum Valley stands out as the best summer trekking destination. If you are wondering why, the reason is that the Tsum Valley is one of the trans-Himalayan regions of Nepal, tucked behind the towering Himalayas in a rain shadow area that rarely observes rainfall.

Hence, along with the spring and autumn, the summer is also one of the best times to begin embarking on Tsum Valley, while trekking in the winter is also absolutely mind-blowing in terms of remaining extra conscious in packing and equipment along with the licensed guide.

How difficult is the Tsum Valley Trek?

The Tsum Valley Trek is considered one of the easiest trekking trails in Nepal, where you will be hiking for 5–6 hours a day. The maximum altitude you will reach during an adventurous journey to the western part of Nepal is at Ganesh Himal Base Camp (4,200 m/13,780 ft). 

However, trekkers must not forget that it is a high-altitude trek in the Himalayan region, whose weather conditions are famous for not being predictable at all. Often, you will encounter rocky terrain in the steep hills in the remote countryside, where medical facilities are privileged. 

Hence, the overall difficulty of the Tsum Valley Trek can be graded as moderately challenging hiking acquaintance in the equally adventurous and rewarding Himalayas, where adequate preparedness can provide a lot of ease.

How to prepare yourself for the Tsum Valley Voyage?

A well-advanced preparation for the Tsum Valley Trek involves a combination of fit physical conditioning, logistic planning, and getting the right gear for the trek. At Ammonite Adventure Pvt. Ltd., we will take care of your every necessity to achieve a successful trekking acquaintance in Tsum Valley. While you focus on your health and fitness for the trek with:

  • Hiking, running, or cycling to improve your cardiovascular fitness.
  • Squats, lunges, and leg presses strengthen your legs and core muscles.
  • If possible, engage yourself in altitude training to acclimate your body to lower oxygen levels.
  • Avoid alcohol and other intoxicating substances.
  • Make a healthy diet routine and follow it strictly, etc.

Electricity and communication in Tsum Valley

En route to trek the Tsum Valley, you can often enjoy the internet services and charge your devices at different lodges and stopover teahouses at some small extra cost, reliable enough to keep an update with your friends, family, and loved ones.

It is understandable for them to get restricted at higher altitudes due to weak coverage. So, it will be wise to carry the Ncell or NTC 4G sim to use the internet wherever your call phone receives signal while trekking to Tsum Valley, along with some spare batteries for your camera or phone.

FAQs

Yes, Tsum Valley Trek takes place in one of the highly elevated areas of the eighth tallest mountain in the world, Mt. Manaslu (8,163 m), which poses a risk of acute mountain sickness during the hike, which should not stop you from a successful trek experience when you acclimatize well.

The maximum altitude gain during the 17-day Tsum Valley Trek with Ammonite Adventure & Treks Pvt. Ltd. is at the Ganesh Himal Base Camp, 4,200 m (13.780 ft) above sea level.

Yes, as one of the highly restricted areas of Nepal, to enter the Tsum Valley, you will need to obtain a restricted area permit along with ACAP and MCAP.

Yes, Tibet is visible from several villages in Tsum Valley, especially from one of the oldest and largest monasteries in the Manaslu region, Mu Gompa (3,510 m).

While numerous villages in the Tsum Valley directly connect Tibet and Nepal, we can say that Tibet from Tsum is a morning's walk away.

Yes, healthy children above seven years old under the care of family members are eligible for a 17-day Tsum Valley guided trek.

Tsum Valley is situated to the east of the Manaslu Conservation Area in the northern part of Gorkha District in Nepal.

Generally, it takes 14–18 days to complete the Tsum Valley Trek, depending on the route, starting point, ending point, side trips, and services of your preference.Tsum Valley is situated to the east of the Manaslu Conservation Area in the northern part of Gorkha District in Nepal.

No, unlike other trekking destinations in Nepal like Annapurna and Everest, the Tsum Valley does not require a TIMS card to enter. Instead of TIMs, what you will need are RAP, MCAP, and ACAP.

Yes, in the lower section of Tsum Valley, many teahouses and local lodges serve pizza on their menus that you can relish during the trek. However, it cannot be said the same for the higher Himalayan region.